Devotionals

The Inescapable War

by Anne Adams
02/18/21
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The Inescapable War

I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus (Phil. 3:14 KJV)

Lunch was almost ready in Wilmer McLean’s Virginia home in 1861 when a shell from the nearby battle of Bull Run suddenly dropped into the kitchen chimney, splattering the family meal. After the battle and to avoid from any future battles, McLean moved his family to the distant Virginia community of Appomattox.

Four years later, in April, 1865 McLean was asked to host the signing of the surrender documents and soon there arrived Generals Lee and  Grant to do just that. Then when they and their associates  were gone so was the parlor furniture, “confiscated” by visitors as souvenirs,

It seemed that Wilmer McLean just couldn’t seem to escape an inescapable war.

Sometimes my problems can seem just as inescapable and especially when I don’t trust him for solutions. In fact when I reject the Lord’s help, then I often become worried, anxious and even fearful. I might even be tempted to just succumb to my misery.

In our passage, Paul tells his readers to “press on” or continue to pursue “the prize,” which of course is knowing Christ. So if I’m to do that then I must to turn back to God, to learn and follow his plans for me. He’ll forgive any sins, then proceed to guide and provide so I might resume my spiritual journey and recommence my work for him.

Anne Adams is a retired church staffer now living in East Texas where she writes an historical co.umn for the local newspaper. She has published one book, and also in Christian and secular publications for forty years.